Kochi's AIMS holds national seminar on breast cancer management

Breast cancer is now recognised as an epidemic in India, as it is the leading cause of cancer death in Indian women. Almost 1.5 lakh new breast cancer cases are diagnosed every year and more that 70,000 women die due tot the disease, according to Globocan (WHO) Data 2012.

In order to raise breast cancer awareness, Kochi-based Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) organised a national seminar on 'Practical issues in the management of breast cancer'. The seminar, inaugurated by Dr. Santosh John Abraham, President of the Association of Surgeons of India, was attended by leading oncologists across the state along with some international experts. (Read: 12 risk factors for breast cancer you should know)

'Public awareness, community screening for early detection are essential interventions to save a lot of lives before the disease takes epidemic proportions,' said Dr. Prem Nair, Medical Director of Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. 'The preliminary data from our own screening programme has been very encouraging,' he added. On its part, AIMS had announced free breast screening mammogram for 100 women above the age of 50. The institute has a unique breast cancer screening clinic, for early detection and treatment. Since its inception early 2014, the Clinic has screened more than 1,000 women. (Read: 10 tips to detect breast cancer early)

'AIMS has an advanced facility to screen breast cancer Sentinel Lymph node Biopsy, a procedure based on newer molecular classification based on Immunohistochemical markers,' said Dr. K. Pavithran, head of Medical Oncology department. 'The day-care chemotherapy unit has two state-of-the-art Laminar flow systems to ensure safe mixing and dilution of chemotherapy drugs and 36 reclining chemotherapy delivery chairs to ensure comfort to the patient,' Dr.Pavithran added. The surgical oncology team at AIMS is also studying newer techniques to reduce Lymphedema, which is a common morbidity factor for Breast Cancer Surgery, said Dr. Pavithran. (Read: One sure-fire tip to beat breast cancer!)

Here are some tips to cope with breast cancer

1. Make a note of all your queries

In order to get the best out of your doctors, bring your questions with you in writing to your appointments. Make informed decisions; learn as much as you can about your diagnosis and treatment.

2. Spend time choosing your doctor

Breast cancer specialists who work at dedicated cancer centres are often better as they offer specific expertise as well as access to the latest treatments that are part of clinical studies. Such centres can provide other specialty services, usually under one roof, such as physical therapy, nutrition and social work. Read more about 10 tips to cope with breast cancer

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images

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